WHAT TO EXPECT: They have a nice-looking lineup to start -- their big three are both exciting and potent -- but they don't have the depth to challenge the very best at the top of the East.

WHO WILL SHOW GROWTH: Jefferson, 26, should get even better, growing into an All-Star as Jason Kidd continues to provide him all the opportunities he needs.

WHO NEEDS TO GROW: Krstic has all the skills, but he needs more consistency, and that should come with experience. If Krstic can provide more of an inside presence, the Nets should do just fine, maybe even surprise those at the top if they stay healthy.

WHAT TO EXPECT: This could be a volatile mix if the Sixers struggle early and trade rumors start with Iverson and Webber. Conversely, both stars might decide that working together, and fitting the other pieces around them, might be in everyone's best interest.

WHO WILL SHOW GROWTH: Iguodala made a huge jump from Year 1 to Year 2, and he should make another leap. He has all the tools to become a big contributor, providing the Sixers with another option beyond Iverson and Webber.

WHO NEEDS TO GROW: Dalembert has been in the league long enough for his talent to shine through. If the Sixers are going to reach the playoffs, he needs to be more forceful around the basket.

WHAT TO EXPECT: The Knicks can't get any worse, and they should be considerably better after last season's disaster and because the team likely will listen to him more than it did to former coach Larry Brown, who wanted the team to follow a structured offense. There is offensive talent on this team, and Thomas must find a way to make it work. He's been given one year to turn it around.

WHO WILL SHOW GROWTH: Eddy Curry has the skills to become one of the best centers in the league. Watch for improved energy from him as he begins to blossom and the Knicks feed him plenty.

WHO NEEDS TO GROW: Channing Frye had an outstanding rookie season -- the Knicks' bright spot -- and he should continue to grow, giving New York a nice but young 1-2 punch in the frontcourt.

WHAT TO EXPECT: The Celtics remain too young to be a serious challenger quite yet, but they are surrounding Pierce with some nice young talent. Rivers needs to settle on a rotation and stick with it, something he didn't do last season.

WHO WILL SHOW GROWTH: Telfair, acquired in a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers on draft day, is a true point guard who will make sure that Pierce gets the ball in the right places. Leaving Portland might be the best thing that happened to him, if he can handle his off-court concerns.

WHO NEEDS TO GROW: Jefferson and PF/C Kendrick Perkins, both 21, will get bigger roles this season, and they should respond nicely. SG Tony Allen should give them a nice spark off the bench.

WHAT TO EXPECT: Big changes, because only four guys from last year's opening-day roster are still here. They should be improved with the changes, but it will take time to make it all mesh. They could look to play a Phoenix Suns-style, fast-paced game.

WHO WILL SHOW GROWTH: Ford, obtained this summer in trade with the Milwaukee Bucks, should be the point guard here for many years. He's a nice fit for the up-tempo style they would like to play. He could be a good one.

WHO NEEDS TO GROW: F Andrea Bargnani, the No. 1 pick in the draft, is expected to contribute quickly. He will be under the microscope because he was the top selection, but the Raptors are convinced he can become a star.